07-21-2025 Meeting Minutes BOCJuly 21, 2025
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PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS July 21, 2025
MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS PRESENT
Kyle Puryear Katherine M. Cathey, County Manager
Jason Thomas Michele Solomon, Clerk to the Board
Sherry Wilborn T.C. Morphis, Jr., County Attorney
Antoinetta Royster
Donald Long
The Board of Commissioners for the County of Person, North Carolina, met in
Regular session on Monday, July 21, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Boardroom
215 in the Person County Office Building located at 304 S. Morgan Street, Roxboro, NC.
Chairman Puryear called the meeting to order and recognized a quorum was present.
Vice-Chairman Thomas offered an invocation, and Commissioner Wilborn led the group in
the Pledge of Allegiance.
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
A motion was made by Vice-Chairman Thomas and carried 5-0 to approve the
agenda.
PUBLIC HEARING:
REZONING/MAP AMENDMENT APPLICATION RZ-01-25 FOR ELIUD
MUNOZ TO REZONE 0.8-ACRE SUBJECT PROPERTY FROM A
RESIDENTIAL (R) to B-1 (HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL) ZONING
DESIGNATION
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to open the duly
advertised public hearing for Rezoning/Map Amendment Application RZ-01-25 for Eliud
Munoz to rezone 0.8-acre Subject Property from a Residential (R) to B-1 (Highway
Commercial) zoning designation.
Interim Planning Director Margaret Hauth presented the following:
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Hauth stated that that the building has been used as a business for many years. She
stated that the site is considered non-conforming as it is now because it is zoned
residential and has a commercial structure on it. She stated that the site is rather small, less
than an acre; therefore, the redevelopment potential is limited, and it also has a lack of
water and sewer services, which also limits the redevelopment of the site. She stated that
the Planning Board made a unanimous recommendation to not approve this rezoning
request. She stated that the Planning Board encouraged the applicant to submit a
Conditional Zoning Request, so that the uses on the site could be constrained.
There were no questions from the Board for Hauth.
The applicant, and property owner, Eliud Munoz stated that he wanted to open and
run a business with his son, who wants to be a mechanic. He stated that he and his family
currently own and operate a restaurant in Hillsborough, therefore he is familiar with how
things go running a business. He stated that if the rezoning is approved, he would do what
is required by the County to be in compliance with any ordinances.
There were no questions from the Board for Munoz.
The following individuals appeared before the Board to speak in opposition of RZ-
01-25 for Eliud Munoz to rezone 0.8-acre Subject Property from a Residential (R) to B-1
(Highway Commercial) zoning designation:
Tommy Yarborough of 2333 Leasburg Road, Roxboro stated that the property was
and still is, as far as he is concerned, a country store. He stated that there is no water, and
no sewage, except for the septic tank line and the well. He stated that if the applicant
decides to turn this property into a garage repair center, he is concerned about oil and
petroleum products getting in the ground. He stated that the soil around and behind the
store is clay, which is not very good soil. He stated that it is only .8 acres, which is a very
small area. He stated that this is a prone place for accidents. He stated that people have
been killed out there because they do not know how to slow down and stop for stop signs.
He stated putting another business in that corner is only going to create more issues. He
stated that most people in the area are against this as it is not a suitable place for a garage,
especially since this is a farming community, that grows tobacco, wheat, and corn.
Karen Long of 586 Dee Long Road, Roxboro stated that she remembers the
country store and used to ride her bicycle up there all the time. She stated that one of the
arguments she has seen for in favor of putting the business in that location was that there
are similar businesses in that area, so it would fit right in. She stated that is part of her
issue.
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Long stated that in the area between Dee Long Road and the intersection with
Burlington Road, there are no fewer than five existing locations where there is auto
service or bulk auto storage or used car sales. She stated that she thinks that should meet
the quota for that type of business in the area. She stated another issue that she is worried
about is, once they obtain approval and the business is open, who will regulate the
property, and make sure they are doing what they are supposed to do in reference to
maintenance, appearance, how the property is taken care of. She stated that there is no
protection from spills and no screening.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to close the public
hearing for RZ-01-25 for Eliud Munoz to rezone 0.8-acre Subject Property from a
Residential (R) to B-1 (Highway Commercial) zoning designation.
CONSIDERATION TO GRANT OR DENY REZONING/MAP AMENDMENT
APPLICATION RZ-01-25 FOR ELIUD MUNOZ TO REZONE 0.8-ACRE
SUBJECT PROPERTY FROM A RESIDENTIAL (R) to B-1 (HIGHWAY
COMMERCIAL) ZONING DESIGNATION
Commissioner Wilborn stated that she attended the Planning Board meeting, as she
generally does. She stated that she does not recall that property being used for anything
other than commercial use. She stated that the tax office taxes the property as a
commercial property. She stated that the County encourages people to follow ordinances
and this applicant is trying to do that. She stated, that Hauth mentioned that it is a non-
conforming use, and that this would bring it into a conforming use to do the rezoning. She
stated that being at an intersection on a US Highway lends that parcel to commercial use.
She stated that there is another property three miles east that is zoned B-1, with a similar
use that is twice the size and not at an intersection. She stated that the property on the
other corner to the east of Dee Long Road is already zoned B-1. She stated that the only
property that directly abuts this property without separation by highway is owned by Mr.
Dixon, who came to the Planning Board meeting and said that he did not have a problem
with this being rezoned, and that he thought it was already a commercial use and was
surprised that it was not. She stated that Dixon’s only request was for the property to be
kept clean and quiet. She stated that there was a concern brought up by Mr. Yarborough
about traffic accidents, and it was also brought up at the Planning Board meeting, and
Dixon stated that the accidents were not caused by the commercial use there because the
accidents happened when there were no businesses operating there. She stated that another
gentleman, Mr. Westbrooks, was at the Planning Board meeting, and he lives south of the
other corner property that is zoned B-1, and he, like, Dixon, said he was not opposed to
the rezoning, as he thought it was already commercial, and that he had the same desire for
it to be kept clean and quiet.
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Wilborn stated that Yarborough is on the other side of Dee Long Road, and is
closer to the property that is already zoned B-1, as he is three doors down. She stated that
he has a sign at the road advertising a pressure washing business. She stated that there are
other businesses along that corridor as well.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and failed to carry 3-2 to approve
RZ-01-25 for Eliud Munoz to rezone 0.8-acre Subject Property from a Residential (R) to
B-1 (Highway Commercial) zoning designation. Chairman Puryear, Vice-Chairman
Thomas, and Commissioner Royster voted in opposition. Commissioner Wilborn and
Commissioner Long voted in favor of.
Chairman Puryear stated that after reviewing this, he does not find it consistent
with the Person County/City of Roxboro Joint Land-Use Plan.
INFORMAL COMMENTS:
The following individuals appeared before the Board to make informal comments:
Nancy Horn of 118 Elderberry Lane, Rougemont stated that in recent years, this
historic and pristine part of NC with rich farmland, going back generations, has been
chosen by global corporations that are not acting with citizens’ best interest in mind. She
stated that they scour the world to find untouched and inexpensive places without a single
though to impact, and focusing only on their bottom line. She stated that Robert Brauer,
chair of the Environmental Issues Advisory Committee is the last gatekeeper between the
corporate machine and those who may not be able to take the time to keep informed on the
ways that they could be impacted. She stated that Brauer has been a vocal critic of Moriah
Energy Center, and is a tireless advocate for the citizens of Person County, who have
seemed to be forgotten in this short-sighted attempt to appease corporate interests. She
stated that she recommends that the Board maintain Brauer as the chairman and that the
committee stays.
Katie Moore of 411 N. Lamar Street, Roxboro stated that she is in favor of the
Environmental Issues Advisory Committee and urged the Board to reappoint Bob Brauer
as the chair. She stated that Brauer has been a support to this community and has
incredible expertise and thoughtfulness about the environmental issues in this area. She
stated that Brauer goes above and beyond to inform the community of what is going on.
She stated that Brauer writes articles that are published in the paper, organizes litter clean-
up, has taken a lot of his time to be a pillar of this community, and cares deeply about
what is going on here.
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Moore stated that she does not understand why the Board would not want someone
like Brauer advising them and the community. She stated that removing Brauer and
getting rid of the Environmental Issues Advisory Committee is a commitment to sticking
your head in the sand about real concerns.
Sandy Pleasant of 465 Yarborough Road, Roxboro stated that she is here to
support the reappointment of Bob Brauer to the Environmental Issues Advisory
Committee. She stated that she was a member of the committee for over nine years, and
was one of the first of nine appointed by the Commissioners to serve on this committee.
She stated that Brauer is a leader and a man of integrity, and she supports him.
Brandy Lynch of 555 St. Paul Church Road, Roxboro stated that she was the
current Economic Development Director for Person County, and more importantly, she is
a wife and mother. She stated that in 2019, she began working with Person County
Economic Development. She stated that in February 2023, she accepted the position of
Director. She stated that she took the job with the County, which had a budget and a
highly qualified County Manager. She stated that she remembered telling the County
Manager that she had kept the department running the same way for months because she
felt it wasn’t her place to change it. She stated that she will never forget when the County
Manager told her this department was hers and that she needed to make it what she
wanted. She stated that many people encouraged her to apply, and eventually she did, not
because she wanted the job, but because her son is Type 1 Diabetic, and the rising costs of
medical supplies and other needs were overwhelming. She stated that you can ask the
County Manager today, and she will confirm that is exactly what she told her. She stated
that she interviewed with the County Administration, and the Economic Development
Commission. She stated that she wanted to take a moment to tell them about her
department and some of what they have achieved. She stated that the department has a
fantastic team. She stated that there is often a misconception about Economic
Development; the public may think they are all the same, but they are not. She stated, to
clarify, the EDC is the Economic Development Commission, and they are an advisory
board of volunteers elected by the Person County Board of Commissioners. She stated that
the Person County Business and Industrial Center is a 501(c)(3) organization that the
Economic Development Department is neither a part of nor has any knowledge of their
actions anymore. She stated, finally, there is the Person County Economic Development
Department. She stated that these three entities are separate, even though some individuals
may serve on more than one board. She stated one last thing, to her family, she has always
put them first. She stated that this job has taken so much of her and her time, and for that,
she is sorry. She stated that the job has taken many vacations, plans, evenings, and some
holidays, but they have always supported her.
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Karen Long of 586 Dee Long Road, Roxboro stated that she is in support of
reappointing Bob Brauer to the Environmental Issues Advisory Committee. She stated that
Brauer quickly became the face of the committee. She stated that this is due to social
media presence, involvement in the community, picking up trash, and giving out books.
She stated that Brauer does not just show up for the meetings, that he is a worker-bee, that
he is dirty, sweaty, and out there working with the people in the County and on the
committee. She stated in addition to that, the information availability to the public is
exponentially better than it ever has been, with articles in the paper, and on social media.
She stated that she looked at the committee’s bylaws, and it is the responsibilities of that
committee to seek ways to educate the public on environmental issues and practices. She
stated that as the chair, Brauer acts as spokesman for the entire organization, and it is not
just his feelings, it is also the committee’s. She stated that the committee is responsible for
adhering to the ethical responsibilities as established by the Board of Commissioners.
Cheryl Allen of 549 Old City Lake Road, Roxboro stated that the high cancer rate
in this County shocked her. She stated that she has a great view of the stacks with the
smoke coming out from her horizon. She stated that as a teacher she always thought about
the children. She stated think of the children’s safety and future. She stated that Bob
Brauer is laidback, relaxed, easy-going, and very smart. She stated that he writes
wonderful articles and researches that information. She stated that he even got her to write
an article about the litter issues in this County. She stated that Person County is one of the
highest in litter populations, ranking 4 out of 100. She stated that Brauer listens to the
committee members. She stated that the committee purchases a book every year for grades
K-5 and distributes it to the schools to be read to the children to make them aware of
pollution, trash, and the environment. She stated that Brauer is smart and gets the
committee members focused. She stated that she does not care what Brauer’s views are on
the MEC, that he has a right to have a view on anything he wants to as he is an American
citizen, such as herself. She stated leave him in the job.
Holly Emerson of 610 Newton Pleasant Loop Road, Hurdle Mills stated that she is
new to the area and represents the Bushy Fork township. She stated that she moved here
from Mecklenburg County. She stated that her grandmother grew up on a tobacco farm in
Henderson in 1901, so it is kind of coming back to her roots. She stated while in
Mecklenburg County she served on the Stewardship Advisory Council. She stated that she
has spoken with regulators on the Hill about concerns for corporate issues. She stated that
she supports Bob Brauer, as he is pragmatic, and interested in awareness and education.
She stated that having someone that is so grounded and intelligent, and understands the
issues, while listening to people is really essential. She stated that it would be a mistake to
see Brauer go.
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Bob Brauer of 1 Bobwhite Road, Roxboro expressed thanks to all that came to
show their support for the Person County Environmental Committee and their support for
shared environment in Person County. He thanked Nancy McCormick for her leadership
and support as the appointed liaison for the committee. He stated that he would like to
make a recommendation to the Commissioners, which would apply to all county
committees. He stated that if the Board has a rule which is so important that violation of
that rule would be grounds for dismissing a committee member or not reappointing them,
then it should be documented. He stated that rule should be reviewed and approved by the
County Attorney and then approved by the BOC. He stated that similar rules exist today in
the Ethical Responsibilities document, which is dated January 2012, and it may be time
for an update.
Holly Forester-Miller of 45 Point Sunset Trl, Roxboro stated that she is a new
member of the Environmental Issues Advisory Committee and represents the Holloway
township. She stated that she applied to be on the committee because of Bob Brauer’s
leadership. She stated that talking to Brauer about the environment gets you energized and
excited. She stated that Brauer is highly knowledgeable about environmental issues and
really cares for Person County and its environment. She stated that Brauer is a great
leader and makes a great contribution to the committee. She stated that the articles that
Brauer writes are informative and educate the public. She stated that Brauer coordinates
the litter sweeps. She stated to not reappoint Brauer would be a travesty, and that different
points of view should not be a reason for not reappointing someone. She stated as an
advisory committee, she would hope that the Board would want people who have differing
points of view, so they could give advice, so that the Board could have the full picture
before making decisions on things.
Amanda Wallace of Durham stated that she is the founder of Operation Stop CPS,
a Durham-based organization. She stated that she is here today to continue to raise
awareness for Kemari Morgan, a one-year-old child who died in the custody of Person
County. She stated that NC is governed by the state and then they pass down jurisdiction
to the counties to implement their child welfare policies. She stated that this Board, chose
to take control of social services, therefore they are the governing board. She stated that
there seems to be a practice in Person County to place children in unlicensed foster homes.
She stated that policy says that children should be in licensed foster homes. She stated that
there was a motion filed on February 4, 2025, with one-year-old, Kemari Morgan as the
child. She stated that the motion states for the court to approve the current placement with
Latisha Linzsey as an unlicensed home for this child.
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Wallace stated that it further stated that Morgan had been placed in the home since
August 1, 2024, and that Linzsey’s foster care license had lapsed, and that Person County
Department of Social Services asks the court to approve Linzsey as an unlicensed home.
She stated that court records show that Morgan’s mother and her attorney were not present
for this hearing. She asked who is responsible for this child’s death.
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA:
A motion was made by Commissioner Royster and carried 5-0 to approve the
Consent Agenda with the following items:
A. June 6, 2025 Minutes
B. June 16, 2025 Minutes
C. Budget Amendment #1
D. Budget Amendment #2
E. Chamber of Commerce Asbestos Abatement Reimbursement
F. Home and Community Care Block Grant Funding
G. Grant Agreement for Access Road Rehabilitation
H. Person County Schools’ Request for Lottery Project Application Approvals from
the Public-School Building Repair & Renovation Fund
I. Tax Adjustments for June 2025
1. Tax Releases
2. NC Vehicle Tax System Pending Refunds
J. Person County Public Library – North Carolina Room Dedication
NEW BUSINESS:
ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
County Manager Katherine Cathey stated that there has been discussions and a
desire by the Board in considering changes to certain advisory boards and committees, as
follows:
Economic Development Commission (EDC) – Amend the organizational
structure to provide for the Economic Development Director to report to the EDC
Human Services Advisory Committee – Create a new committee
UDO Steering Committee – Dissolve this committee as the task for which it was
created has been completed
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Cathey provided the following information in reference to the EDC:
The Person County EDC was established on Feb. 16, 1981 as a non-profit that
functioned as an autonomous body responsible directly to the Person County
Board of Commissioners. In April 1984, Economic Development was established
as a county department.
The structure of the EDC was changed from a non-profit to a Public
Authority within the meaning of State Law, Chapter 159.
For a period of time (unknown), the EDC had the authority to “hire and fix the
compensation of any personnel necessary to its operations… The Executive
Director [functioned] directly under the overall supervision of the Commission
Chairperson.”
Going back to at least September 20, 2012, the EDC has had the authority to
“recommend the employment of an Economic Development Director, who shall
be the Director of the Commission, and other staff as may be required.”
The Economic Development is a county department with the mission “to create a
new rural model where family and tradition are valued, willingness to work hard
can lead to success, and community leaders embrace change and provide the best
possible opportunities for all residents.” The department has three full-time
employees and is responsible for a FY26 departmental budget of $457,507 and
Economic Catalyst Fund budget of $1,700,079. The Economic Development
Director (job description attached) reports to the County Manager.
The Economic Development Action Plan is attached along with an action plan
update that was shared with the EDC in January 2025.
Cathey stated that the County is researching the budget authority that the EDC has
to determine if the way the County budget is structured and the way that the funds have
been appropriated are in alignment with the General Statute that would allow for a change
in reporting authority for the staff within that department. She stated that she is working
with the County Attorney and the legal staff with the School of Government. She stated
that there is a little more information needed regarding the budgetary authority before
moving forward with making this change, to ensure that the change is made and all
provisions of the law are being followed in terms of General Statute 158, conveying this
particular authority to the Economic Development Commission. She stated this would be a
big change, in terms of the way the communication flows, the level of responsibility that is
being provided for oversight of the department and the staff. She stated that she
encourages discussion amongst the Board.
Commissioner Wilborn stated that on page 164 of the agenda packet, the job
description under the summary objective, the first sentence says that “The purpose of the
position is to perform promotional and consultive work in developing and directing a
comprehensive economic development program for Person County”. She stated that she
thinks that, “under the direction of the EDC” needs to be added. She stated that under the
essential functions section where it says “Management may assign additional functions”,
she thinks it needs to be clarified that the Commission is the management there. She stated
that on page 165, the third bullet says “Prepares the departmental budget
recommendations, and establishes yearly goals and objectives.” She stated that she thinks
that “with input from the Commission” needs to be added. She stated that on page 166,
the qualifications under special certifications and licenses, she thinks that “CEcD,
NCCED or advanced degree and training in a related field is preferred” be added. She
stated that on page 174, the Org Chart has Economic Development under the County
Manager, and she thought the whole action the Board was taking is to move that under the
Board of Commissioners. She stated that on page 176, Article 2, Section 1, states
“Receive from any municipal, county, joint or regional planning board or commission
with jurisdiction within its area an economic development program for part or all of the
area” She stated that she thinks that “county” should be stricken there because there is
only one county in their jurisdiction and they would not be receiving a program for that,
they would be creating or guiding the program for that. She stated that on page 177, under
membership, she would like the Board to consider making a change through a resolution
amending the EDC for a change in membership where it has under section 2B- instead of
Elected Mayor or alternate elected official of the Roxboro City Council. She stated that
she would like to add as appointed by the Board of Commissioners each January. She
stated the reasoning behind her suggestion is that the Mayor has no voting authority on the
City Council and does not participate in discussion related to action. She stated that she
thinks it would be more favorable to have a City Council Member on that board, who
actually votes. It was the consensus of the Board to bring this item back before the Board
at the next meeting, after the County Manager is able to provide more information.
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Cathey provided the following information in reference to the Human Services
Advisory Committee:
There is no corresponding legal requirement to create a social services advisory
committee when the board of commissioners assumes the powers and duties of a
board of social services.
The Board of Commissioners could appoint a separate advisory committee for
social services or for other human services functions consolidated within the
CHSA (G.S.153A-77(a), but it is not required by law to do so.
An advisory committee is only statutorily required when the Board of
Commissioners becomes the board of health (either for a nonconsolidated county
health department or a CHSA that includes public health).
Cathey stated that there is no statutory requirement in establishing a committee.
She stated that the Board would be comprised of citizens that the Board would appoint.
It was the consensus of the Board to move forward with creating a five -member
board and to bring this item back before the Board at the next meeting, allowing staff to
provide more information.
Cathey provided the following information in reference to the UDO Steering
Committee:
Cathey stated that confirmation was needed from the Board that the UDO Steering
Committee was no longer needed and could be removed from the list of committees.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to dissolve the
UDO Steering Committee.
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TAX COLLECTOR SETTLEMENT
Tax Administrator Russell Jones presented the following:
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Commissioner Wilborn commended Jones and the Tax Department.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to accept the
settlement report.
ORDER TO COLLECT TAXES
Tax Administrator Russell Jones asked the Board to approve the order to collect
taxes for 2025 and delinquent taxes from prior years.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to direct the Tax
Collector to collect taxes for 2025 and delinquent taxes from prior years.
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REAPPOINTMENT OF COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR
A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 5-0 to reappoint Russell
Jones to a four-year term as Person County Tax Assessor.
Chairman Puryear administered the Oath to Russell Jones.
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P8 STIP PROJECT SUBMITTALS
County Manager Katherine Cathey stated that work has begun with NCDOT as
well as the RPO, which is the Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Government, to generate a list
of local priorities for submittal for prioritization to be considered for funding as part of the
upcoming State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP). She stated that Person County
currently has project U-5969 working its way through the funding steps. She stated that
this project calls for improvements to Madison Blvd/501 within Roxboro city limits to
convert five lanes to four lanes with a planted median and a number of intersection
improvements. She stated that the project starts just south of US 158 near Walmart and
extends to North Main Street and has been divided into three segments. She stated that
Segment B, which is from NC 157 to W Morehead St, is funded. She stated that the Right
of Way is scheduled for 2029 and construction is scheduled for 2031. She stated that no
further requests are needed for this project to continue. She stated that Segment A, which
is from Walmart near US 158 to NC 157 will compete for funding, but does not need to be
resubmitted as Preliminary Engineering was funded in the current STIP. She stated that
this project will continue moving through the funding steps. She stated that Segment C,
which is from W Morehead St to N Main St is unfunded, but will compete in this next
round of prioritization as a sibling to the other segments. She stated that it does not need to
be resubmitted, and will continue moving through the funding steps. She stated that there
is also AV-5818 to extend the runway at the airport. She stated that project is funded with
construction scheduled in 2026, and no further action is needed for this project to
continue. She stated that within Aviation, the extension project is at the top of the list, and
this would be a confirmation of the Board’s continuing support for that project. She stated
that the County has also allocated local funding towards a new terminal building at the
airport. She stated that project has evolved over the last year. She stated that also within
Aviation is box hangars.
She provided the following categorized and locally ranked listing of projects that have
been previously submitted:
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Aviation:
1- Airport runway extension 7,000-ft., taxiway extension, realign SR 1311 (Cates Mill Rd.)
2- Expand existing terminal building from 2,000 SF-5,000 SF, parking lot, water line
3 -Box hangar and taxi lanes
Bike-Ped:
1- Durham-to-Roxboro Trail (Long Version)
2- Durham-to-Roxboro Trail (Short version)
3 -Roxboro Trail (Rox Tracks Rock)
4 -Roxboro Trail (Rox Tracks Short)
Highway:
1- US 501 from US 158 to N. Main St. (4-lane divided, intersections, sidewalks)
Section A ROW & utilities scheduled for FY27; construction FY29
Section B Preliminary PE funding only; subject to reprioritization
Section C Preliminary PE funding only; subject to reprioritization
2- Continue 4-laning 501 from Polywood north
3- 4-lane 158 from Granville County to Caswell County (Caswell side lower priority)
Transit:
1 -1 expansion vehicle for PATS—eligible for up to 90% funding with a 10% match from the County
Cathey stated that modernization of US 501 north of Roxboro and US 158 from
Granville County to Caswell County have not competed as well against other projects
submitted from neighboring jurisdictions. She stated that if the Board were to approve the
Resolution, it would be submitted to Kerr-Tar COG for consideration. She stated that there
will be a scoring process where the local projects will compete with other projects within
our region, and then certain projects will be moved forward to the state. Commissioner
Wilborn stated that she would like to see the list of priorities for highway flipped and have
four lanes of 158 from Granville to Caswell be presented as Person County’s priority. She
stated that would keep four-laning 501 from Polywood north as second priority. She stated
that she has talked to people at all different levels at DOT, including the person who is
Secretary now, and they have all said the traffic counts just do not support four-laning the
rest of that. She stated that would move the other project, converting five lanes to four
lanes for US-501 down to third position. Chairman Puryear stated in reference to
eliminating the center lane on 501/Madison Blvd, it would impact businesses, and it is
something that they need to look strongly at. He engaged in discussion and passed the
gavel to Vice-Chairman Thomas. He stated that he does not feel that project is a priority
and that it would be more of an inconvenience. Interim Planning Director Margaret Hauth
stated that this list is being coordinated with the City of Roxboro, and that all three
projects are within the City of Roxboro city limits, and that it represents the City’s
priority. Puryear stated that it may be the City’s priority, but it is not the County’s priority.
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Puryear stated by approving the Resolution, the Board is saying that they are in
agreement with that. He stated that he thinks that further discission is needed with the City
of Roxboro. Commissioner Long stated that he was in favor of moving priority three to
number one. Puryear recommended that the County Manager and all of the parties on the
County side get with the City of Roxboro and have a discussion in reference to the
priorities. It was the consensus of the Board to remove the US-501/Madison Blvd project
from the resolution, bump up the four-laning of 158 from Granville to Caswell as top
priority.
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to adopt a
resolution stating the county’s ongoing support for AV-5818 and the removal of the US-
501/Madison Blvd project and making four-laning 158 top priority for Person County, and
to request funding for the projects.
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PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST POLICY
Assistant County Manager Brian Hart presented the following:
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Commissioner Wilborn had questions about fees and the cost for producing
records, as well as the four-hour time frame. County Manager Katherine Cathey stated that
the four-hour time frame is an arbitrary number that the County used based on other
policies, and she does not think that there is a General Statute setting the number of hours
before being able to charge. County Attorney T.C. Morphis, Jr. stated that General Statute
talks about extensive use of IT or Clerical/Supervisory time. He stated that there has not
been a case thus far that defines that. He stated that if the Board wanted to see some
revisions, or to clarify the policy, he thinks there is some flexibility. Commissioner
Wilborn stated that if there is a request that takes county staff four hours or more to work
on them, that is pretty significant. Cathey stated that the County would not be factoring in
the amount of time that the employee spends on the request, as it does not fall within the
clerical or supervisory assistance category. She stated that this four-hour timeframe is
more if additional support is needed to fulfill that request beyond what the employee
themselves can do. Wilborn stated that the County can still track the time it takes in the
software for transparency and reporting reasons. Cathey stated that staff is utilizing
tracking on all requests. Commissioner Long asked what is the timeframe for responding
to requests. Cathey stated that the County policy stipulates that they would try to respond
within ten days, but many times it is within the hour, or within a day or two for the simpler
requests, and then those requests that are more complex will take longer than the ten days.
Wilborn asked when would requests be made public. Hart advised staff is working on that
and would need to manually go through each request before making public to ensure no
redaction is needed. Cathey stated that staff would look at the four-hour timeframe and the
revision of the wording. Wilborn requested that the Board be provided with quarterly
reports of public records request that show the requester name, date, and what the request
is for, as she finds this helpful.
It was the consensus of the Board for staff to provide the Board with quarterly
reports of public records request that show the requester name, date, and what the request
was for.
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APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon presented to the Board interested citizen
applications for consideration for appointment to boards and committees and requested the
Board to nominate for appointment as deemed appropriate.
Environmental Issues Advisory Committee
3-Year Term: 1 position for a citizen residing in each of the following townships:
Allensville Township, Olive Hill Township, and the Woodsdale Township
1) Robert Brauer requests reappointment for the Allensville Township, his term
expires 6/30/25
Chairman Puryear advised Vice-Chairman Thomas that at the last meeting on June
16, 2025, there was a motion made by Commissioner Royster that was suspended as it was
a 2-2 vote.
A motion was made by Commissioner Thomas and carried 3-2 to reappoint Bob
Brauer to the Environmental Issues Advisory Committee, representing the Allensville
township, for a 3-year term.
Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee
1 position available for a Citizen-at large with lived experience (personal or family
member)
1) Shane Amos requests appointment
2) Brittany Chavis requests appointment
3) Stephanie Tippett requests appointment
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to appoint
Stephanie Tippett to the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee.
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DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATE TO THE NC ASSOCIATION OF
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon stated that the NC Association of County
Commissioners Annual Conference will take place August 21-23, 2025 in Pitt County,
with the business meeting taking place on August 23, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. She stated that we
need a voting delegate to represent Person County. She stated that she is requesting the
Board to designate Commissioner Wilborn, who is attending the conference.
A motion was made by Commissioner Royster and carried 5-0 to designate
Commissioner Wilborn as Person County’s voting delegate to the NC Association of
County Commissioners Annual Conference.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Chairman Puryear expressed thanks to everyone that assisted with the flooding
event. He thanked Representative Jeffers for his assistance with the Governor declaring a
State of Emergency for Person County. He stated that Person County will continue to
recover from the flood event. He stated that he and Commissioner Royster attended an
unveiling of a new fire truck at Hurdle Mills Volunteer Fire Department.
MANAGER’S REPORT
County Manager Katherine Cathey reiterated what Puryear stated in reference to
the flooding event. She stated that there is a tool on the County website for citizens to
report storm/flood-related damages. She congratulated Russell Jones on his reappointment
as Tax Assessor and expressed thanks to Jones and his staff on the tax collection efforts
and the revaluation process. She stated that there would be a ribbon-cutting event at the
Sportsplex on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. for the upgraded nature trial.
COMMISSIONER REPORTS/COMMENTS
Vice-Chairman Thomas echoed Puryear and Cathey in reference to the flooding
that occurred and thanked Puryear for his quick action in issuing a State of Emergency for
Person County. He expressed thanks to the first responders for their assistance and help
during the storm.
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Commissioner Wilborn echoed what has been said in reference to the flooding
event. She stated that she met the Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences of
NC State this morning at a reception that was being held. She stated that Rep. Jeffers was
in attendance, and commended Puryear on his quick actions in declaring a State of
Emergency for Person County. She encouraged all citizens and business owners to report
any damages that they sustained during the flood. She also indicated for all emergency
personnel to document hours spent assisting, to include cutting/removal of trees and
debris. She stated that she attended the Airport meeting, where it was discussed that the
Environmental Assessment continues for the runway expansion. She stated that she
attended the EDC meeting and they are continuing to plan the leadership summit for
October. She stated that she attended the Planning Board meeting. She stated that she
attended the ribbon-cutting at Huck Sansbury.
Commissioner Royster echoed what has been said by all in reference to the
flooding event. She stated that she and Puryear attended the unveiling of a new fire truck
at Hurdle Mills Volunteer Fire Department. She stated that she attended the ribbon-cutting
at Huck Sansbury for the new ADA playground. She stated that she toured Centennial
Park with John Hill. She stated that she volunteered at the food distribution at South
Elementary School, where local families received food from local farmers.
Commissioner Long expressed thanks to Puryear and Rep. Jeffers in reference to
the State of Emergency declaration. He stated that the Inspections department has been
talked about negatively on social media in reference to permit fees for lake properties. He
stated that the County may want to consider waiving permit fees related to storm/flood
damage for lake properties.
A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 5-0 to enter into Closed
Session at 11:23 a.m.
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CLOSED SESSION
A motion to enter into Closed Session per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3) for the
purpose to consult with the county attorney in order to preserve the attorney-client
privilege and General Statute 143-318.11(a)(1) to prevent the disclosure of information
that is privileged or confidential with the following individuals permitted to attend:
County Manager Katherine Cathey, Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, Assistant
County Manager/Human Services Director Brian Hart, and County Attorney T.C.
Morphis, Jr.
CLOSED SESSION
A motion to enter into Closed Session #2 per G.S. 143-318.11(a)(3) to preserve the
attorney-client privilege to discuss Person County v. Yarboro, Person 25 CVS 290, and
Burrell v. Person County, USDC NCMD 1:25-cv-376, and other matters, with the
following individuals permitted to attend: County Manager Katherine Cathey, Clerk to the
Board Michele Solomon, and County Attorney T.C. Morphis, Jr.
Chairman Puryear called the closed sessions to order at 11:28 a.m.
A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 5-0 to return to open
session at 11:55 a.m.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Commissioner Wilborn and carried 5-0 to adjourn the
meeting at 11:56 a.m.
____________________________ ______________________________
Michele Solomon Kyle Puryear
Clerk to the Board Chairman